Biologic therapy (also called immunotherapy) uses drugs to improve the way your body fights cancer. The therapy attempts to repair, stimulate, or enhance the immune system so that it can identify and fight the cancer cells more effectively. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

Cytokines are reproduced proteins that activate the body's immune system. Examples of cytokines used to treat kidney cancer include interferon alfa and interleukin 2 ( IL-2, aldesleukin, or proleukin).

Interleukin 2 (IL-2) is given by injection under the skin or by IV for metastatic kidney cancer. Treatment may be given in cycles separated by a rest period. In some cases, IL-2 results in shrinking the tumor. In others, the tumor may disappear completely, though there is a chance of recurrence. IL-2 treatment is not appropriate for all people with metastatic kidney cancer because of the serious side effects.

Targeted therapies attempt to interfere with the growth of the tumor by blocking the
formation of new blood vessels around the tumor. Though not a cure, these medications may shrink or slow the growth, and/or spread of tumors, and extend survival time.

Bevacizumab works by slowing the growth of new blood vessels.
At times it may be combined with interferon alfa, which boosts specific components of the immune system.

Temsirolimus works to inhibit cell growth. The most common side effects include:

Skin rash

Feeling weak

Mouth irritation

Nausea

Loss of appetite

Fluid buildup in the face or legs

Increases in blood sugar and cholesterol levels

If both kidneys are removed or no longer function, dialysis will be necessary. Dialysis mimics kidney function by filtering wastes and excess fluids from the blood. It is a permanent treatment if a kidney transplant cannot be done. There are 2 main types of dialysis:

Hemodialysis—Blood is pumped from a vein into a machine (called a dialyzer) outside of the body. The machine filters the blood and returns it to the body. Treatment is typically done 3 times per week for up to 4 hours. Treatment times and frequency can vary from person to person.

Peritoneal—A sterile solution enters the abdominal cavity through a tube. The abdominal cavity is lined with blood vessels. The blood vessels and solution interact to draw wastes and excess fluids into the solution. The solution is then drained from the abdominal cavity. Peritoneal dialysis can be done at home, often during the night, eliminating the need to travel to a hemodialysis facility for treatment.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.